How I Scored the Best Travel Deals on Travel Tuesday and Black Friday

Eka Joseph
Nov 21, 2024
3 min read

you're like me, the idea of snagging an incredible travel deal makes your heart race a little faster. Whether it’s jetting off to a sun-soaked beach or exploring a bustling city, finding the perfect vacation at an unbelievable price is a thrill. Enter two of my favorite days of the year for booking travel: Travel Tuesday and Black Friday.

Here’s how these shopping holidays became my secret weapon for planning dream getaways without blowing my budget.

What is Travel Tuesday?

A few years ago, I stumbled across Travel Tuesday while hunting for flights. It’s the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, right after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Unlike those other two days, Travel Tuesday focuses solely on—you guessed it—travel deals! Airlines, travel companies, and hotels roll out some of their best offers, and the competition isn’t as crazy as Black Friday.

On one Travel Tuesday, I scored a round-trip flight to Europe for under $400. I had no specific plan in mind, but the price was too good to pass up. That spontaneous trip turned out to be one of my most memorable adventures.

Why Black Friday is a Goldmine for Travelers

Black Friday isn’t just for shopping for electronics. It’s also a treasure trove of travel deals. Cruise lines, vacation packages, and even all-inclusive resorts go on sale.

Last year, I found a deal for a luxury beachfront resort in Cancun at half the usual price. What made it even sweeter? It included airport transfers and a spa credit. It felt like I was living like royalty for a fraction of the cost.

Tip: Start looking for deals as early as Thanksgiving Day. Some travel brands release offers ahead of Black Friday, and you don’t want to miss out.

My Top Tips for Snagging Deals

Be FlexibleSome of the best deals pop up for specific dates or destinations, so staying flexible can save you big. I’ve often shifted my plans by a week or two to take advantage of a deal.
Do Your HomeworkBefore Travel Tuesday or Black Friday, I research my dream destinations. Knowing the average prices helps me spot a real deal versus a so-so discount.
Subscribe and FollowI sign up for newsletters from airlines and travel companies and follow them on social media. Flash sales often get announced there first, and sometimes there are exclusive deals for subscribers.
Have a Plan (But Be Ready to Pivot)I go into these shopping holidays with a wishlist: destinations, dates, and a budget. That said, some deals are too good to pass up, so I leave room for spontaneity.
Check Cancellation PoliciesLife happens, and plans change. I always check the fine print to make sure I can cancel or reschedule if needed.

What to Look For

Flight Deals: Last year, I booked a non-stop flight to the Caribbean for $250 round-trip. Yes, please!
Vacation Packages: These bundles often include flights, hotels, and even excursions. Perfect for stress-free planning.
Cruises: If you’re a fan of cruising, Black Friday is the time to book. I’ve seen deals with free upgrades and onboard credits.
Luxury Hotels: If you’ve ever wanted to stay somewhere bougie, this is your chance. Think infinity pools and ocean views on a budget.

My Favorite Travel Steals

Over the years, I’ve snagged some pretty amazing deals on these two days. Some highlights include:

A weeklong trip to Costa Rica for under $600, including flights and accommodations.
A 5-night Mediterranean cruise with a balcony room for less than $500.
Business-class flights to Asia for what I’d normally pay for economy.

These deals have allowed me to experience things I never thought I could afford, and that’s why Travel Tuesday and Black Friday have become my go-to booking days.

Final Thoughts

If you’re itching to plan your next trip, I can’t recommend Travel Tuesday and Black Friday enough. With a little preparation and some quick decision-making, you could be on your way to an unforgettable adventure at an unbelievable price.

So, set your alarms, make your wishlist, and be ready to hit “book.” Trust me, it’s worth it. The only thing better than traveling is knowing you got a great deal to get there.

Where will you go next? 🌍